In a significant move for the gaming industry, Nintendo has announced its plans to acquire Bandai Namcos Singapore studio, which will be renamed Nintendo Studios Singapore. This acquisition, set to take effect on April 1, 2026, will see Nintendo purchasing 80% of the studios shares, with the remaining shares to follow after a certain period. This strategic acquisition highlights Nintendo’s commitment to enhancing its development capabilities, particularly in creating in-game art assets, a key area of expertise for the Singapore studio.

Pokemon Legends: Z-A has emerged as the best-selling physical game in the US for 2025, a testament to the enduring popularity of the franchise. According to Mat Piscatella from Circana, this game has not only topped the charts shortly after its release but has also set records for the best retail launch week in over two years. This impressive performance underscores the strength of the Pokemon brand, which continues to thrive across various media, including toys and trading cards.

In an exciting turn of events for Nintendo fans, both Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza have been shortlisted for the prestigious ‘Console Game of the Year’ at the Golden Joystick Awards. This recognition not only highlights the impressive launch lineup for the Switch 2 but also showcases the enduring appeal of these iconic franchises. With the gaming community buzzing, it’s clear that these titles have made a significant impact in the competitive landscape of 2025.

Nintendo Switch Online has just made a significant addition to its SNES library by introducing three classic games, including the long-awaited Mario & Wario, which marks the first-ever release of this Japanese title outside of Japan. This addition not only expands the nostalgic offerings for gamers but also highlights Nintendo’s commitment to preserving its rich gaming history. Mario & Wario, developed by Game Freak before they became famous for Pokmon, is a unique puzzle platformer that utilizes the Super Famicom Mouse.

In a surprising turn of events, Nintendo has publicly denied claims that it is lobbying against generative AI in Japan. This statement came after Satoshi Asano, a member of Japan’s House of Representatives, suggested on social media that Nintendo was avoiding the use of generative AI to safeguard its intellectual property (IP) and was involved in lobbying activities with the government. Nintendo’s formal denial underscores its commitment to protecting its IP rights without engaging in political maneuvering.

Fans are buzzing with excitement as they believe Nintendo may have inadvertently revealed upcoming titles for the Nintendo Switch Online service. A recent trailer showcased a blurred section that appears to hint at several beloved N64 games, including the highly sought-after Super Smash Bros. This speculation has ignited discussions across social media platforms, with many eager to see these classic titles added to the service. Highlighted by keen-eyed fans, the blurred artwork could potentially represent games like Donkey Kong 64, Forsaken 64, and Glover.